Local veterans press issue of deported veterans, promote documentary screening
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Summary
At the meeting, veterans promoted the documentary 'America in Exile' and testified about veterans who have been deported; organizers invited committee members to arrange follow-up conversations with the film’s director and community volunteers offered other support such as RV repairs and care.
During public comment, attendees urged the committee to spotlight veterans who have been deported and to use a planned documentary screening to raise awareness.
Maxine Lorenz told the committee about a scheduled screening of the deported-veterans documentary "America in Exile" and said the film’s director and team are willing to meet with local organizations to discuss collaboration. She also reported community fundraising and logistical help to assist a veteran whose RV broke down while traveling and requested contacts for RV repair resources.
Vietnam veteran Jesus Manuel Valenzuela Rodriguez described his service and said deportations of veterans were an affront to the country’s stated promise to honor military service. “How can America say we honor our veterans and turn around and deport us?” he asked, and he urged wide advocacy and resolutions to address the issue.
Organizers noted the film and related events are tools for outreach and recommended follow-up meetings between the director and veterans organizations to plan support and community education. Committee members were directed to the committee chat for further coordination and to connect veterans with assistance where possible.
